Learning & Conversations
Jewish Life at the JCC
The Shames JCC inspires and grows community connections through Jewish teachings, values, spirituality, and culture in ways that are accessible, caring, and inspiring. Our diverse programs and events include discussions that impact our greater community and provide valuable lessons; celebrations of the heritage, traditions, and values of Jewish culture; actions that repair our corner of the world (tikkun olam); and invitations to reach across real and perceived religious, ethnic, racial, economic, and cultural differences to focus on our shared humanity.
Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome to join us!
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Ongoing Programs
Israel Exploration: Kol Yisrael (All of Israel)
6 Wednesdays, June 11–July 23 (no session June 25); 1:00–2:30 pm
FREE for members and non-members
Kol Yisrael is a 6-week cohort learning experience offered by Hillel International to explore big ideas and big questions animating the contemporary Israeli discourse. Participants will explore big questions facing Israeli society, a diversity of narratives/experiences in the Israeli landscape, and their own personal relationships with Israel in a structured safe space. Rabbi Ron Symons will be a member of the class as a Hillel professional leads us.
The name, Kol Yisrael, embodies the aim and methodology of this curriculum. In Hebrew, the word Kol (כל) means “all”. While we can’t provide “all” perspectives and narratives on the questions raised here, it is our aspiration to make our tent wider, to invite more voices to the table, and to cultivate resilient empathy for diverse perspectives.
While we hope that you can join us for all of the sessions, we welcome you to attend most of them if that is what your schedule allows.
RegisterChallah and Conversation
2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Fridays of the month; 9:30–10:30 am
Rabbi Ron Symons, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement, will lead an interactive guided conversation about life that weaves general spirituality with a Jewish lens. Topics are drawn from the human condition, anti-Semitism/hate in our world, holidays, Israel, current events, and more, with a focus on our shared humanity. Our conversations will be all the richer because of your presence, questions, and comments. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. Feel free to join us whenever you’re available to do so.
July 11: Adam & Eve and Adam & Steve: Exploring Religious Perspectives on Gay Marriage
More Info
July 18: Bastille Day and Jewish Identity
More Info
Common Ground: Interfaith Dialogue
2nd Thursday of the month; 10:00–11:00 am
Join Rabbi Jay Stein, Greenburgh Hebrew Center, and Rev. Gareth Evans, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church of Irvington, for an enlightening conversation to build bridges across real and perceived differences. Your participation as a “fly on the wall” and/or an engaged conversationalist is welcome.
Future dates coming in the fall!
Clergy Talk
Join us for meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable.
Future dates coming in the fall!
